June 08, 2011

Hundreds Rally in PA for Strong Natural Gas Drilling Safeguards

I wasn't sure what to expect as I walked up the Pennsylvania Capitol steps and into the Rotunda yesterday. Recently, I've been reading articles and hearing stories of how Pennsylvania residents have been affected by natural gas drilling but until now, I've never met or spoke with any of them. This was my golden opportunity.

As I walked in, I immediately could feel the energy in the room. This was made very clear, right away: Pennsylvania residents want statewide safeguards on natural gas drilling put in place immediately.

Many activists brought bottles of contaminated drinking water they filled from their faucets. Homemade signs were big, voices were loud and the Capitol Rotunda was packed with supporters urging State elected officials for help.

With about 500 supporters from all corners of the state, a serious message was sent to State officials and Governor Tom Corbett. The problems with natural gas drilling are real, the consequences are disastrous, and something needs to be done immediately.

This eye-opening rally kicks off my journey into northern PA where I plan to visit ground zero of the Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling. Continue to follow me over the next few days right here on Sierra Club's Compass blog.

Jason Pitt is the Associate Press Secretary for the Sierra Club's National Gas Reform Campaign. He's in Pennsylvania all week touring natural gas drilling sites, meeting with activists, and learning more on the issues the Keystone State is facing with natural gas drilling.

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